Waisman Early Childhood Program – Research Collaborations
The Waisman Early Childhood Program (WECP) is a child development and early learning program for children ages 3 months to 6 years. WECP is a state-licensed, City of Madison Accredited and Nationally Accredited (NAEYC) early education and care program with a mission for meeting the needs of a developmentally diverse group of young children. Approximately two thirds of the children in the program are typically developing and up to one third that may have a special educational need because of a developmental delay or disability.
WECP also serves as a learning program for UW Madison, and the CTC supports collaboration between researchers and WECP in a variety of ways. These could include observations, recruitment for research studies, internships, and volunteer opportunities. All research activities conducted in partnership with WECP are subject to a Waisman Center WECP Research Proposal Process prior to implementation.
Please direct inquiries regarding WECP partnerships to the CTC Research Coordinator at ctc@waisman.wisc.edu.
Proposal FAQs
Who can submit a proposal?
Only Waisman Center faculty members and academic staff with PI status (collectively referred to hereinafter as “investigators”) may submit research proposals. Other Waisman Center staff, trainees, and students must collaborate with a Waisman Center investigator in proposing partnership with WECP. Proposals from Waisman Center affiliates or investigators who are external to the Waisman Center will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the CTC research coordinator at ctc@waisman.wisc.edu for more information.
When should you submit a proposal?
Early submission is encouraged. If possible, submit your proposal during the initial steps of your project (e.g., request for letter of support, grant application). The review process is designed to be a tool to ensure that the research activities are congruent with Waisman Center mission and WECP priorities, policies and procedures.
Research proposals should be submitted to the CTC research coordinator and receive approval prior to submission to the UW–Madison IRB. Implementation of research activities will not occur until IRB approval is obtained.
When should you submit a revision to your proposal.
Revisions to research proposals should be submitted to the CTC research coordinator and receive approval prior to submission to the UW–Madison IRB. Implementation of research activities will not occur until IRB approval is obtained.
What activities do not require review?
Some activities are exempt from this review process:
- Requests to display recruitment flyers on the WECP bulletin boards should be submitted directly to the CTC research coordinator at ctc@waisman.wisc.edu. Please include a copy of the material and your IRB approval letter.
- Requests to disseminate flyers to families within the WECP should be submitted directly to the CTC research coordinator at ctc@waisman.wisc.edu. Please include a description of your study and intended participants, a copy of the material, and your IRB approval letter.
Rates
Investigators whose research teams are not part of the WECP and need research coordination services will utilize the CTC. Click here for rates.